Community Bulletin

New car sharing program

Downtown residents, visitors and commuters have more options thanks to a new carshare program beginning in Orlando this fall – at no cost to the taxpayers. Under the no-cost contract, Hertz 24/7 is providing carshare services at six locations in the city of Orlando. The contract is through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The carshare program provides commuters access to vehicles rented by the hour, allowing drivers to run errands or attend meetings. The vehicles are also available to downtown Orlando residents who have chosen a “car-lite” lifestyle but still need occasional access to a car. Rates will start at $8 an hour depending on the type of vehicle rented and will include gas, maintenance, parking and insurance.

Carshare programs have been operational for many years in other major cities across the United States, including Boston, New York City and Miami. Plans for expanding the program beyond the city of Orlando depend upon the success of this program, as well as interest from other municipalities that have the employment and residential density to continue the program at no cost to the FDOT. Visit reThinkYourCommute.com for more information.

Breastfeeding clinic celebrates

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s Women, Infants and Children program, commonly known as WIC, celebrated the first year anniversary of its Walk-In Breastfeeding Clinic and Moms Support Group during World Breastfeeding week. The WIC’s Breastfeeding Walk–In Clinic is open every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Central Office located at 901 W. Church St. in Orlando. During these sessions, certified lactation consultants and peer counselors work to meet participants’ breastfeeding goals, provide a venue for learning good parenting skills, and help moms achieve healthy outcomes for their babies. It is a walk-in service, so no appointment is necessary. It is also open to the general public.